Microsoft and Qcells, a global solar leader, have announced a strategic alliance to curb carbon emissions and power the clean energy economy. The collaboration is rooted in the companies’ collective commitments to diversify the global energy supply chain, proactively lead the development of more reliable energy supply chains in the United States and abroad, and reduce carbon emissions.
Qcells, owned by Hanwha Solutions and headquartered in Seoul, will work with Microsoft to develop solar projects as well as provide panels and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services to selected solar projects Microsoft has contracted for through power purchase agreements (PPAs). Microsoft has committed to purchasing renewable energy with a goal of achieving 100% coverage of electricity consumption with renewable energy by 2025.
This partnership will enable a strong supply chain for new renewable electricity capacity projected to require at least 2.5 gigawatts of solar panels and related services, which is equivalent to powering over 400,000 homes. Qcells is the only company in the US that will have a complete solar supply chain and provides one-stop clean energy solutions.
“Building a resilient solar energy supply chain is essential to advancing a global green energy economy. Microsoft’s partnership with Qcells will help make this vision a reality by bringing innovation and investment to rural Georgia,” said Brad Smith, vice chair and president, Microsoft.
Qcells CEO Justin Lee added, “We’re striving to build and deliver turnkey clean energy solutions, including those made in America, and this partnership with Microsoft will help accomplish this vision. Similarly, Qcells is proud to play a role with Microsoft to bring more renewable energy online in the years to come. This first step is only the beginning of a great partnership that not only supports our two companies but helps deliver a clean energy future for customers and communities.”
The growing need for American-made solar products is expected to accelerate Qcells’ transition into a one-stop shop for clean energy solutions. Being the only company in the US with a complete solar supply chain, Qcells intends to become a leading developer for solar and other clean energy solutions such as energy storage systems. Combining its growing EPC expertise with smart energy management systems, Qcells will continue to provide completely clean energy solutions and lead the global fight against climate change.
This partnership between Microsoft and Qcells is the first of its kind and is a significant step forward in the push for a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. It shows how companies can work together to achieve common goals, and it is a positive example for others to follow. With the growing demand for renewable energy, this partnership is a timely and important development that will help to accelerate the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy economy.
